When it comes to comfort food, few dishes evoke a sense of warmth and coziness like a steaming hot plate of elbow macaroni. But why settle for the same old recipe when you can take your creamy pasta game to the next level with these 20 mouthwatering variations? From classic baked mac and cheese to truffle oil-infused delights, we’ve got you covered with our collection of creamy elbow macaroni recipes.
From spicy Cajun creations to loaded bakes packed with pulled pork, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich and creamy alfredo sauce or a bright and tangy pesto, these recipes will keep you coming back for more.
Classic Baked Mac and Cheese
Classic Baked Mac and Cheese: A Comforting Classic Recipe
This iconic dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of creamy macaroni, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Elbow Macaroni
This comforting pasta dish is a twist on the classic mac and cheese, with the added richness of garlic and parmesan. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and creamy sauce; toss until coated.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Elbow Macaroni with Andouille Sausage
This hearty one-pot dish combines the creamy comfort of macaroni and cheese with the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning and the smoky flavor of Andouille sausage.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Andouille sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Add Cajun seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, sausage, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Elbow Macaroni Bake
This recipe combines the creaminess of mac and cheese with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken, all wrapped up in a satisfying casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elbow macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 (12 oz) can buffalo chicken sauce
– 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add buffalo chicken sauce and stir until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked macaroni, buffalo chicken mixture, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Three-Cheese Elbow Macaroni with Bacon
Get ready for a comforting and satisfying meal with this creamy macaroni dish loaded with three types of cheese, crispy bacon, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. elbow macaroni
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, combine crumbled bacon, grated cheese, garlic, and heavy cream. Stir until smooth and heated through.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the skillet, tossing until well coated with the cheese mixture.
5. Transfer the macaroni to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Truffle Oil Elbow Macaroni with Mushrooms
This decadent pasta dish combines the simplicity of elbow macaroni with the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and a hint of truffle oil. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add truffle oil to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the skillet, tossing to coat with mushroom-truffle mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elbow Macaroni Alfredo with Broccoli
This comforting pasta dish combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the crunch of steamed broccoli and the warmth of elbow macaroni. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a large serving bowl, combine cooked macaroni, Alfredo sauce, and steamed broccoli. Toss to coat and add some reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Elbow Macaroni with Pulled Pork
A comforting twist on classic mac ‘n cheese, this recipe adds tender pulled pork and crispy bacon for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 2 cups pulled pork (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously; bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, pulled pork, and crumbled bacon into the cheese sauce; season with salt and pepper.
7. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Elbow Macaroni Carbonara with Peas
A creamy and flavorful twist on the classic Italian dish, this elbow macaroni carbonara combines tender pasta, rich eggs, and sweet peas for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni
– 4 oz (115g) pancetta or bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup (115g) frozen peas
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the pancetta from the skillet and set aside. Leave any rendered fat behind.
4. Crack in the eggs and stir to combine with the fat in the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the eggs are scrambled.
5. Stir in the cooked macaroni, peas, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper.
6. Serve immediately, topped with crispy pancetta or bacon and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Southwest Elbow Macaroni with Black Beans and Corn
Experience the bold flavors of the Southwest with this hearty macaroni dish, loaded with black beans, corn, and a hint of spice. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or diced tomatoes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in cumin and cook 1 minute. Add black beans, corn kernels, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Combine cooked macaroni with the bean-corn mixture. Toss until well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of cheese, cilantro, or tomatoes (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elbow Macaroni with Creamy Pesto Sauce
A classic comfort food gets a flavorful boost with this creamy pesto sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup freshly made pesto (or store-bought)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in pesto until well combined.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and pesto mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lobster Elbow Macaroni in White Wine Sauce
Experience the luxurious combination of succulent lobster, tender elbow macaroni, and rich white wine sauce, perfect for a special occasion or a indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elbow macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 pound cooked lobster meat, diced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add white wine and heavy cream; simmer until reduced by half.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
5. Combine cooked lobster meat with the white wine sauce. Toss with cooked elbow macaroni.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elbow Macaroni with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach
This comforting pasta dish combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, wilted spinach, and creamy sauce with elbow macaroni. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the sun-dried tomato-spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Elbow Macaroni Bake
A creamy, cheesy, and spicy twist on the classic macaroni bake, featuring jalapeño poppers for an added kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elbow macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 can (4 oz) jalapeño poppers, drained and chopped
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped cilantro. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Fold in chopped jalapeño poppers.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Dot the top with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Elbow Macaroni with Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onions
This creamy pasta dish combines the richness of smoked gouda cheese with the sweetness of caramelized onions, all wrapped up in a comforting serving of elbow macaroni.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, smoked gouda cheese, and heavy cream in a large serving bowl. Toss until well coated.
6. Add caramelized onions and garlic mixture to the pasta, tossing to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-Style Elbow Macaroni with Feta and Olives
This recipe combines the comfort of elbow macaroni with the bold flavors of Greece, featuring tangy feta cheese and briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add olives and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their brininess.
4. Stir in feta cheese until melted and combined with the olive mixture.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and toss until coated with the Greek-inspired sauce.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elbow Macaroni with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce
This comforting dish combines classic elbow macaroni with the warm, aromatic flavors of pumpkin and creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy fall evening or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh sage or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually stir in pumpkin puree, then heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir cooked macaroni into the sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elbow Macaroni with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
This recipe combines the comfort of elbow macaroni with the sweet and smoky flavor of roasted red peppers. The result is a satisfying, flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast red peppers for 30-40 minutes or until charred, then peel off skin.
3. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Add roasted red peppers, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and red pepper sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Elbow Macaroni with Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce
This classic comfort food dish combines the simplicity of elbow macaroni with the rich flavors of creamy tomato basil sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and cherry tomatoes in olive oil over medium heat until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add heavy cream, chopped basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and creamy tomato sauce. Toss until coated.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elbow Macaroni with Goat Cheese and Herbs
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines the creaminess of goat cheese with the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add crumbled goat cheese and cook, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese, parsley, and chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the goat cheese mixture. Toss until well coated.
6. Transfer the pasta to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a creamy pasta paradise! This collection of 20 recipes features mouthwatering elbow macaroni dishes, each one more comforting than the last. From classic baked mac and cheese to innovative twists like truffle oil with mushrooms or lobster in white wine sauce, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover new favorites and satisfy your comfort food cravings with these rich and creamy elbow macaroni recipes!
